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Processed with VS1Describe a streak of setbacks, superstitions, and performance tension without treating them as proof or diagnosis.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe source uses “snakebit” for a period when many things seem to go wrong. “Jinx” can be a noun for an imagined cause of bad luck or a verb meaning to bring bad luck, especially in a superstition. In sports, “the yips” refers to performance tension that interferes with a skill. “Born under a bad sign” is an astrology-based expression, not a factual explanation for events.
Cultural note: These are figurative and superstitious expressions, not explanations for why events happen. “The yips” is associated with sports performance; do not use it to diagnose someone or reduce a complex difficulty to nerves. A streak of setbacks may also reflect chance, conditions, or practical problems that can be addressed.
Keep exploringA run of bad outcomes can feel like a curse, but idioms about luck do not explain what caused the problems.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe repeated problems without blaming a person or fate.
Meaning
Experiencing a long run of bad luck or repeated setbacks.
Tone & use
Informal and dramatic; usually implies more than one isolated problem.
Example
“After three delayed deliveries and a canceled reservation, we felt snakebit on that trip.”
Recognize playful belief language without presenting it as evidence.
Meaning
A supposed cause of bad luck or a run of misfortune.
Tone & use
Informal and superstitious, often used jokingly rather than as a factual cause.
Example
“The team joked that the old scoreboard was a jinx after another home loss.”
Meaning
Bring supposed bad luck to a person, plan, or event.
Tone & use
Often said playfully when someone predicts success too confidently.
Example
“I do not want to jinx the project, so let’s celebrate after the final review.”
Meaning
Supposedly destined for bad luck from birth.
Tone & use
An astrology-based expression, often associated with blues music; it is not a factual account of someone’s life.
Example
“After a string of minor mishaps, he joked that he was born under a bad sign.”
Understand a sports expression without using it as a diagnosis.
Meaning
A sudden performance difficulty or tension that interferes with a practiced sports movement.
Tone & use
Most associated with sports. Avoid using it as a casual diagnosis or assuming the performer’s cause.
Example
“The golfer said pressure was affecting his short putts, but the coach focused on support and practice rather than labels.”
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